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Hit the water

Lindsay Adams with Kayak Carolina prepares a group of 7- to 12-year-olds to go out in kayaks at the southern end of Fort Fisher. The group was taking part in Coastal Adventures Kids Kayak Camp, a three-day camp held weekly until the end of August.

Published: Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 9:21 a.m.

Last Modified: Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 9:21 a.m.

If you're a visitor to the Cape Fear coastal counties from Pender down through New Hanover and into Brunswick this summer, adventuring opportunities along the shore must seem endless.

And so do all the folks who are set up to support your summer shore needs with their rental shops, tours, excursions and friendly guidance.

One of them is Emma Thompson, owner for 14 years now of The Adventure Kayak Company in Southport. She champions all the different outfitters from the South Carolina border north through Surf City.

“The wonderful outfitters throughout our region provide a real service of being knowledgeable about the tidal waters,” says Thompson. “We''re all very willing to help folks navigate their adventure. Even the time of day can be tricky, especially when you are paddling. The success and enjoyment of a trip often depends on how hard it is to paddle.”

Thompson also notes that the ocean and its shoreline are a treasure, but there also are surprising adventures for visitors who explore inland.

“We have unique salt marsh creeks, barrier islands and incredible black water rivers,” says Thompson. “You may be looking at a cypress tree that is over 300 years old. There are so many different experiences. You never know what you're going to see.”

Don't know where to start? Here's some tips of what you need to try three of the most popular water sports in the area.

Wrightsville Parasailing Company: 1402 Airlie Road, Wilmington; parasailing excursions; open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays as well as the week of July 4. Details: www.wrightsvilleparasail.com; 910-232-1235